Australians embrace flexitarianism

While Australia has traditionally been considered a nation of meat-eaters, it seems that times are changing. According to new research from Lonergan Research, almost half (45%) of Australian adults surveyed have actively tried to reduce their meat consumption, with around one in 10 calling themselves ‘flexitarians’.

Flexitarianism involves following a predominantly vegetarian diet, but occasionally eating meat, fish or poultry.

Of those surveyed, 17% claimed to be meat reducers - actively pursuing either a vegetarian or flexitarian diet. This was most common among women, with 22% describing themselves as such, compared with just 14% of men.

More than 1 in 3 have trialled vegetarianism, but gave up due to a lack of vegetarian options and inconvenience, the research shows.

“The more choice available to Australians the better, as increasing plant-based proteins and reducing animal-based proteins in the diet can reduce chronic disease risk, has a lower environmental impact and can be a nutritionally adequate eating plan,” said Accredited Practising Dietitian Angela Saunders.

“The Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend that red meat is restricted to no more than 455 g per week and that we should increase our current intake of beans and legumes by 470%. Beans and legumes are highly nutritious plant protein foods that provide an important source of fibre.

“I’m sure that Australians will welcome tasty meal options containing beans and legumes.”

Life Health Food, which produces GM-free meat alternatives under the Bean Supreme label, commissioned the study. The company recently released two new meat-free products.